Cabinet Approves Bill to Legalize Commercial Motorbike Services in Ghana

October 3, 2025 

The Cabinet has given the green light for the amended Road Traffic Regulations Bill aimed at legalizing commercial motorbike services, popularly known as 'Okada,' to be laid before Parliament when the House reconvenes, Transport Minister Joseph Nikpe Bukari has announced.

Timeline and Implementation

Speaking in a radio interview observed by vistanewsgh.com on Thursday, October 2, 2025, Mr. Bukari expressed confidence that the new law would take effect by the end of the year once Parliament approves the amendments.

"I believe that by the end of the year, once the law is amended, this [Okada passenger business] will take effect," the Minister stated.

Key Requirements for Operators

The proposed legislation establishes stringent requirements for commercial motorbike riders:

Licensing and Age Requirements

• Minimum age reduced from 25 to 21 years
• Standard motorbike licenses will not suffice for passenger transport
• Specialized passenger-carrying license required
• DVLA testing and certification mandatory

Union Membership

All operators must belong to recognized unions, with membership directly linked to their right to operate. The Minister emphasized that unions would play a crucial role in the regulatory framework.

"Once you get your licence to operate, you belong to a union. The union will then play a role in training you with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) and certifying that you are qualified to carry passengers," Mr. Bukari explained.

Safety Standards

Operators and their motorcycles must meet strict roadworthiness criteria:

• Mandatory helmet usage
• Protective gear requirements
• Motorbike inspection before licensing
• Regular roadworthiness checks

"Before you are given a licence, you must meet the requirements. You must have a helmet, you must wear protective gear, and your bike will be inspected to ensure it is fit for use," the Minister stated.

Learning from Regional Models

Ghana has studied regulatory approaches from other African countries, including Rwanda, to develop its framework. Mr. Bukari noted that the regulation would facilitate better monitoring of riders and enforcement of traffic discipline at key points across the road network.

Addressing Transport Challenges

The Minister described the initiative as a solution to last-mile connectivity challenges in Ghana's transport system. He acknowledged that indiscipline on the roads extends beyond motorbike riders to include other vehicle operators.

"I see the operationalisation of okada as a solution for the last mile," Mr. Bukari said, adding that the new system aims to instill discipline across the entire transport sector.

Regulatory Enforcement

The DVLA and unions will work collaboratively to ensure compliance with the new regulations. Officers will conduct practical tests and physical inspections of motorcycles before issuing licenses.

"The unions will take responsibility, working with DVLA, to train them, certify them, and make sure they have the appropriate licence," the Minister emphasized.